Dental Implants and Importance of Oral Hygiene

Regardless if a person is missing just one tooth or all of their teeth, dental implants provide the best tooth replacement option in modern dentistry. No other dental appliance so closely mimics the natural look, feel, and function of a natural tooth. While dental implants are capable of lasting a patient a lifetime, it is absolutely necessary to practice good oral hygiene if you want them to last that long.

Good oral hygiene with dental implants is the same as it is for natural teeth. First off, you will need to brush your teeth at least two times a day. Be sure to use a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste when you brush. Some patients prefer using an electric toothbrush, which is also fine. Flossing daily is also extremely important. Interdental brushes can be used if that is more comfortable for cleaning between your teeth, but be sure the metal wire is coated with nylon. Scratching the implant can cause a safe haven for bacteria. Also be sure to visit the dentist every six months for a professional exam and cleaning.

The dental implants themselves are impervious to decay, but the surrounding soft and hard tissues are not. In fact, the surrounding tissues are more vulnerable to decay because there is a decreased blood flow to the area. It is these surrounding tissues that make good oral hygiene with dental implants so important. Peri-implantitis is a condition much like gum disease that can develop in these surrounding tissues. Peri-implantitis can lead to implant failure if it is not treated in a timely manner.